By R.V. Baugus

Experience counts. And when you add the combined years of industry experience for the newest-minted IAVM winners of the Charles A. McElravy Award, Joseph J. Anzivino Distinguished Allied Award, and IAVM Foundation Legacy Award, there are none better than iconic veterans Beth Wade, CVE, Richard Andersen, CVE, and Tom Cornwall, CVE, who respectively were honored on Wednesday morning during VenueConnect.

Cornwall took the stage first to accept the Foundation Legacy Award. The Retired member encouraged those in the large crowd to do what he did, begin donating to the Foundation with what you can and increase from there. Wise words from one who served as co-chair of the Foundation Silent Auction in 1997-98 and has supported the Foundation since the mid-1980’s.

“I learned early on that the Foundation doesn’t just exist,” Cornwall said. “It needs our help and support. I got in the habit of giving annually so programs could continue in developing new ideas. If you’re getting started, consider reaching in your pocket and giving $10 or $15 a month.”

Cornwall retired after a 44-year career and during the 2020 pandemic worked in Edmonton in the National Hockey League “bubble” during the Stanley Cup playoffs, where he “hibernated” for 92 days.
“I consider this my Stanley Cup,” Cornwall appropriately said.

Richard Andersen – speaking of appropriate – was introduced by Russ Simons, CVE as a “hybrid” who has served on both the Professional and Allied side of the industry. Along with his better half, Kim Bedier, CVE, who also introduced Andersen, the remarks from the honoree touched on many of the consistencies in his life that have enabled Andersen to become one of the industry’s most highly regarded and successful practitioners.

“So many people have come alongside me in my career,” Andersen said. “All of us have special ones in our life.”

Andersen asked the audience for 15 seconds of silence to reflect on those who have helped them in their lives and careers. “Whomever you were thinking of, imagine how pleased they are right now,” Andersen said.

“’Things’ didn’t make me any happier,” Andersen said. “I learned a long time ago to check my ego at the door, as Russ would say.”

Before finishing his introduction to Charles A. McElravy Award winner Beth Wade, Michael Marion, CVE, was compelled to share one story from a Region 5 story involving Wade, noting that she referred to him as “my best girlfriend in a macho kind of way.” (Note: Marion introduced Wade as “my best boyfriend in a girlie kind of way.”)

“I am extremely humbled,” Wade said. “I am extremely proud to have been an IAVM member since 1981. I have learned through the years that we have the ability to make change a reality.”

Wade stressed the importance of completing surveys when IAVM sends them. She also stressed the value of earning the CVP or CVE designation. “I encourage you to get certified to communicate your value of venue professionalism.”

“When I think about the true pluses of IAVM I know I can pick up the phone and call anyone in the world,” she continued. “It is what make us unique, special, and why IAVM was formed.”

Speaking of the Association’s formation, Wade talked about her days working in Memphis and about award namesake McElravy and his work in Memphis. Wade said that McElravy was one of the early creative agents of change in the industry.

“I found an IAVM book from 1925-75 with references to McElravy when he took his job at the civic center,” she said. “He laid pipes on the floor of the civic center to do ice shows.”

“My support for IAVM will not end when I go to the Arena in the sky” Wade concluded. “I would like for scholarships to be established to help members from tertiary markets be able to go to schools and programs.”

By R,V, Baugus

Prior to receiving the 2023 Convention Center Lifetime Achievement Award, Courtney Dyer, CVE, was described as a unicorn, that rarest of public assembly venue managers who worked in one local market – Virginia Beach, VA. Not only one market, but Dyer was even born in Virginia Beach. The retired IAVM member and long-time staple of Region 5 was feted for his achievements in a distinguished 48-year that began in 1972 at the Virginia Beach Civic Center.

Putting the years in perspective, Dyer noted during his acceptance remarks that he worked when “we used 12-foot poles to put letters on 20-foot marquee signs.”

Ah, those were the days, and on this particular Tuesday morning before a room full of peers who came to recognize and honor Dyer, this was quite the day for one of the industry’s finest.

“It has been since 2019 that I have been at an IAVM event,” Dyer said. “This is like old home with so many of you that I grew up with.”

Dyer spent a large portion of his acceptance remarks thanking many of his contemporaries with anecdotes about each. From Bill Holland (who is now a 52-year IAVM member) and counting others who are in the Who’s Who book in the industry including Cliff Wallace, Lionel Dubay, Shura Garnett, Peggy Daidakis, John Smith, and others, Dyer paid homage to those who helped shape his career.

He talked about his attendance at IAVM events that began with an Operations Manager meeting at the Richmond Coliseum and included what he called the “summer camp for adults in Wheeling, West Virginia (read: Venue Management School).”

Dyer went on to work at the Virginia Beach Pavilion and then opened the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Through the years, Dyer has been active in volunteering including the Virginia Beach Rescue Squad, Virginia Beach Health Clinic, and – imagine this – playing the role as one of the world’s thinnest Santa’s.

Through it all, Dyer’s passion for Region 5 was most evident. It has been a passion and service of love that he has had throughout his career.

Dyer also looked forward in acknowledging some of the new and emerging leaders within IAVM, naming Naz Sabripour, Mac Campbell, and one of his mentees in Virginia Beach, Bryan Miller.

Finally, Dyer shared a story from one of his high school reunions. The situation was that Dyer was concerned his class would not have enough attendance numbers to meet the contract with the hotel. But as the event drew closer, Dyer was relieved to find that the hotel wanted to work with his reunion at the numbers of those who came. No attrition here.

“The message is that we all need to give a little forgiveness,” Dyer said. “We need to make people want to do business with us.”

It is a lesson that Dyer learned well in Virginia Beach. It is a lesson he carries forth in his personal life when it comes to acceptance and forgiveness. It is why Courtney Dyer became the latest and most perfect honoree for the Convention Center Lifetime Achievement Award.

By R.V. Baugus

It was an IAVM Foundation kind of night at the Leadership Dinner that was one of the first events to kick off VenueConnect in Pittsburgh. In a night that recognized 15 Past Presidents/Chairs among other announcements of incoming and outgoing IAVM Board leaders, Chair Adina Erwin, CVE, made it a night to especially remember those who have contributed roles on the IAVM Foundation through the years by selecting several deserving individuals to receive the Chair Citation, an honor especially bestowed by the current Chair to individuals who have made contributions to the association or industry. Erwin, of course, has served at the helm of the Foundation, so its role within IAVM is close to her heart.

As Erwin called the names of the nine Chair Citation recipients, she shared snippets of those individual’s roles through the years on the Foundation, including some who have served for 14 years. The Chair Citation is usually given at a smaller number, but Erwin was quick to point out that she would not be following the rules this year for such a deserving group. Perfect decision, Ms. Chair!
Congratulations to the following recipients of the 2023 Chair Citation:

 Bill “Sparky” Bavirsha, CVE
 Alexis Berggren
 Jim Brown, CVE
 Danny Bryant, CVP
 Gina Brydson
 Kayln Denniston
 Shelly Kleppsattel
 Angie Teel, CMP
 Jim Wynkoop, CVE

IAVM wishes to thank the beautiful PPG Paints Arena for their hospitality in hosting this year’s Leadership Dinner.

By Ashley Gravois

Jerry MacDonald, who has served as President and CEO of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion since 2003 and has transformed the venue into an internationally recognized cultural and entertainment destination, has announced that he will be stepping down in March 2024. Until then, he will remain in his current position to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership. The Pavilion’s Board of Directors will be launching a national search for his replacement in the coming months.

“The Pavilion is in a very strong position now — financially stable, with all the pieces in place for the future. I am so proud of all that we’ve accomplished collectively, building The Pavilion as a vital and beloved institution in The Woodlands and beyond as we fulfill our mission to engage and inspire the community through live entertainment,” said MacDonald. “It has been an honor to lead this organization for as long as I have and I look forward to seeing the venue continue to grow for many, many years to come.”

MacDonald presided over decades of growth and change at The Pavilion, including its full rebuild and expansion after Hurricane Ike devastated the venue in September 2008. Under MacDonald’s guidance, the venue undertook the most ambitious construction project in history. In an unbelievable 160 days, The Pavilion reopened its gates with Dave Matthews Band on the Main Stage and a new roof that had been expanded almost 2.5 times, increasing the number of covered seats to over 6,000. Years later, MacDonald shepherded the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic where he was able to maintain all full-time staff and emerge in solid financial shape. As a result, The Pavilion was able to continue its mission work, remain largely open and – perhaps most importantly – present a diverse and star-studded season.

The Pavilion has consistently earned a spot among the top ten amphitheaters in the world from leading industry publication, Pollstar, based on audience attendance. Most recently, The Pavilion ranked second in the top 100 amphitheaters in the world based on the number of tickets sold in 2022. Ranking in the top ten amphitheaters 18 times and in the top five amphitheaters 12 times, MacDonald has been at the helm of welcoming more than eight million guests to the venue and introducing them to the power of live entertainment.

In addition to driving economic development through many seasons of exemplary live entertainment, MacDonald’s leadership has made a significant impact on the infrastructure of the venue including the
building of The Pavilion’s Event Center with an indoor Ice Rink (making it the first venue of its kind to offer an ice rink on property), the rebuilding of the Woodforest Bank Club and a new Operations building featuring an extended loading dock. These new facilities, along with a wide variety of other capital improvement projects throughout the last two decades, not only have enhanced guest and artist experiences onsite but have provided an exceptional backdrop for future concerts and events.

“Jerry’s 20-year tenure at The Pavilion has seen remarkable achievement. His leadership and commitment have been hugely instrumental in making The Pavilion the incredible success it is today. From being $10 million in debt when he assumed his role, to funding an endowment that now tops $50 million, Jerry has been an outstanding steward of the organization,” said Roger Nicholson, Chairman of The Pavilion’s Board of Directors.

In addition to his storied career, MacDonald has forged strong relationships with the community, sponsors and key partners, most notably in his roles as a founding member of The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, an ex officio Director of The Woodlands Chamber of Commerce and an honored member of George’s Coffee Club. which was founded in honor of George Mitchell.

When MacDonald arrived in March 2003, he brought with him over twenty years of senior management experience in operating a variety of entertainment venues. As vice president and general manager of Houston’s Summit/Compaq Center, he oversaw the 17,000-seat arena and managed the facility during its most profitable years. Prior to Compaq Center, Jerry was an instrumental part in the opening of three venues from the ground up – Ocean Center in Daytona Beach, Florida; Miami Arena in Miami, Florida; and, The Pyramid and Mud Island in Memphis, Tennessee. Jerry served as vice president and general manager of The Pyramid and Mud Island, (1990-95), Miami Arena (1987-90), Ocean Center (1983-87) and Lakeland Center in Lakeland, Fla. (1976-83). Jerry also proudly served as general manager for two NBA arenas for the Miami Heat and the Houston Rockets. Jerry is a graduate of Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida. He and his wife, Tricia, have two daughters, both graduates of The Woodlands High School and four grandchildren.

MacDonald’s 48-year career in the entertainment industry as well as his ongoing commitment to The Woodlands community will be honored in the coming months.

Ashley Gravois is Public Relations & Education Outreach Manager for The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.

By Blair Cardinal

McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America, has awarded Oak View Group two major contracts for private management.

In a unanimous vote, the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA) Board awarded the contracts for private management and food services on the McCormick Place campus to OVG360 and OVG Hospitality, respectively.

The contracts, scheduled to begin on October 1, 2023, and run through September 2028, were unanimously awarded following an extensive public procurement process. The change will affect the McCormick Place Convention Center, the 10,00-seat Wintrust Arena, and Arie Crown Theater.

“I am thrilled to welcome OVG360 and OVG Hospitality to our campus, “said Larita Clark, CEO of MPEA. “We are always seeking ways to evolve and innovate to provide the best destination in the country for our event planners and their attendees. This new partnership gives us the opportunity to continue to enhance the McCormick Place experience, from the planning phase to the event execution phase, through the completion of each event.”

OVG360 and OVG Hospitality are divisions of global sports and live entertainment company Oak View Group, and currently manage a combination of services in more than 400 venues worldwide, including arenas, stadiums, convention centers, performing arts centers, and more.

“We’re incredibly proud that McCormick Place has entrusted OVG360 and OVG Hospitality as the new keepers of this world-renowned complex. While McCormick Place has set the industry standard for decades, we are honored to help shape its future,” Chris Granger, president of OVG360, said. “We see an incredible opportunity to elevate the guest experience, support the surrounding community, drive sustainability, and grow and inspire a diverse workforce. We look forward to bringing our depth of experience from around the globe to Chicago and to building upon McCormick Place’s incredible track record.”

OVG Hospitality is among the fastest-growing food and beverage providers worldwide, embracing technology, sustainability, local investment, and diversity, equity, and inclusion to create tailored experiences at every location.

“From onsite hydroponic gardens to high-tech market experiences to diverse local suppliers, OVG Hospitality has all the resources to elevate McCormick Place’s dining experience to the next level,” Ken Gaber, president of OVG Hospitality, said. “We are excited to begin serving guests from around the world at McCormick Place.”

Across Illinois, OVG currently oversees a combination of venue management and food services at Navy Pier in Chicago, SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates, and State Farm Arena and Memorial Stadium at University of Illinois in Champaign. OVG also manages more than 60 convention centers across North America, including Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas, Miami Beach Convention Center, Atlantic City Convention Center, Duke Energy Convention Center in Cincinnati, and I-X Center in Cleveland.

“We’re thrilled to welcome McCormick Place as our newest convention center partner,” Greg O’Dell, president of OVG360 Venue Management, said. “With our best-in-class service offerings and relentless pursuit of operational excellence, we look forward to helping McCormick Place maintain its stature as one of the preeminent meeting and conventions venues in the world.”

Planning will begin immediately to ensure a seamless transition for McCormick Place clients, guests, and employees. MPEA is in communication with upcoming events to keep them aware of the latest developments, and OVG360 and OVG Hospitality have committed to honoring existing collective bargaining agreements on campus to maximize employee retention. Additionally, ASM Global and SAVOR…Chicago, the campus’ current private management and food service providers, will work closely with MPEA, OVG360, and OVG Hospitality throughout the transition.

As a municipal corporation governed by Illinois state statutes, MPEA is authorized to employ private venue and private food service management companies for McCormick Place and conduct new competitive procurement processes for these contracts periodically.

“MPEA is grateful to ASM Global and SAVOR…Chicago for setting the standards as McCormick Place’s private management and food service provider for more than a decade, and we thank them for their assistance during this transition,” Clark said.

Blair Cardinal is VP, Communications for OVG360.